So, this whole blog was started as a class project. I decided early on that I wanted to get back into building things. (I’ve covered this before, read that in the “about me” section) What I’m talking about now, is why everyone (who isn’t already building things) should start building things. The process of taking raw materials and then reassembling them in another configuration, is immensely rewarding. I’m not just talking about woodworking either; cooking food, sewing, painting, music, and even coding are all ways of building things. And they are all very rewarding.
When I first proposed this blog idea to my teacher, I was told that it would be too time consuming. Well, guess what, it is. I’ve had a few setbacks, broken a few pieces of wood, had a few late nights, spilled some blood, and a spent few days in negative 20 degree weather. Even though all of this has happened, it is still one of the most rewarding things I do every week.
Me, in -20 weather, attempting to stay positive.
So, what keeps me going and what keeps me interested? I have three main sources of inspiration for making things. The first is the website instructables, they have a simple search bar which reads, “Lets make _______”. This is where I get started, I just type in whatever I’m thinking, and will easily find all the instructions I need. The website makes it almost too easy to start. Type anything in, and you will be given the best set of instructions you can find online. The second source I draw inspiration from is the podcast Still Untitled. This podcast features Adam Savage, who is the co-host of Mythbusters. I’ve been obsessed with Mythbusters since it started back in the early 2000’s. On this podcast Adam and the other hosts talk about everything from getting started, tolerances, learning that you will screw something up, and even where to find materials. I can’t recommend this podcast enough. The third place I get inspiration from is, well, everywhere. I am the guy who stealthily takes pictures of furniture everywhere I go. I like to see what other people are doing and I draw inspiration from them. It’s not stealing, it’s borrowing. I guess my point this week is that I broke what I was building, and I needed to post something. I’m ashamed. So I decided to talk about why I build things, and where I get inspiration from. Enjoy.
Almost Built 
I wish I knew how to build…if only.. Keep up the great work!
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Taking on all these projects with the amount of workload we’ve had this semester sounds terrifying – good job for managing to complete the ones you did – I think I being handy and having the ability to build things is always a great characteristic to have!
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Great post Alex, starting a new project is always a little intimidating but so worthwhile once its done!
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It is really smart of you to reconfigure things and turn the waste into something useful.
I also need some skills like that. Absolutely, it will help me save lots of money!!!
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Great post Alex! I think we can all agree that you’ve committed a ton to your blog, but it makes it that much more interesting to read. You not only get a great blog, but the things you make and the reward you feel when all is said and done. Can’t wait to see your next DIY.
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I agree with your post completely. There are few things more empowering than building something. I am not as talented as you and usually get my rush from Ikea furniture.
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This is really great, Alex! Any hands-on project definitely makes me feel incredibly satisfied too, but lately I’ve found myself unwilling to commit any length of time to projects like this. Your take on things and your blog in general make me want to reconsider that, and get back into it!
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